Back to la future

Peugeot’s new 3008 is gorgeous. I’m not alone in my thought process – it’s recently won, in the SUV category, at the Women’s World Car of the Year. Nice going, especially since there were 420 cars in the running with over six categories. The Women’s World Car of the Year is the 35th title awarded to the sexy 3008 since its launch this year.

Slightly bigger, and far better looking than its predecessor, the new 3008 is a more focused vehicle than before; more SUV and less multipurpose vehicle without the previous “WTF look”. Futuristic would be a good word to describe the new 3008.

Beautiful aesthetics aside, the 3008 is also a practically sized vehicle, with a generously sized boot, space for five and 16 handy storage compartments, although slightly smaller than some rivals.

Design and technology features are a highlight of the 3008’s package - virtual electronic display (named the i-Cockpit), mood lighting, selective scent diffusion that blows through the air conditioning and a wrap around and sculpted dashboard, laced in soft to the elegant touch materials. Additionally, there are a Keyless Entry and an automated electronic handbrake function. There is an infotainment system that manages a long list of the cars technologies via sophisticated, high-quality touchscreen display, daylight running likes, rear Park Distance Control, automated headlights and windscreen wipers. All of this is standard in the lower specification Allure model with additional kits on more expensive models.

So, the 3008 gets a tick for its aesthetics, accommodation, technology and value for money, but what is it like to drive?

Like most French cars, the 3008 has a supple ride. Comfort is key, and the cars compliant elasticity soaks up poor road surface with a plume. Basically, it is a pleasure to drive.

The engine within my test car was the free-revving 1.6-L turbocharged motor. This is the only engine available locally. It confidently accelerates the midsize 3008. Never aggressive but always very willing and able. It’s nice to know that if you’re in a hurry, the 3008 will sprint to 100 km/h in just 8.9 seconds. Power is a decent - 121 kW/270 Nm. During my test period, I was able to achieve a fuel consumption of 7.8-L /100km. These are all very respectable figures.

A highlight of the drive is its quick turning steering, operated via the cars unique little sports steering wheel. Handling is good but not as dynamic as the Mazda CX-5, which is just that much more fun to drive.

Your gearbox choice is either a six-speed manual or automatic. I’d go with the latter. Its lever is a work of art that enhances the artistic transmission console. Gear changes are smooth, while the computer mapping of the gearbox is sophisticated enough to select the best gear – always! Manual mode is available together with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters for some playful fun. Not perfect - the gearbox is laidback and not as eager to rip through its gears at the same pace as VW’s DSG box in their Tiguan.

Overall, this SUV is far more dynamic than you’d think - considering its meagre price - just R440 000 and what Peugeot have packed into their new SUV, the 3008 is arguably in the top three cars within its class. It’s also a contender in the 2018 WesBank Car of the Year Competition. In my opinion, it stands a good chance of winning.